Best kitchen knives UK 2022 from Zwelling, Elite

If you’ve met many professional chefs (or just watched too many episodes of Masterchef and Chef’s Table), you know their most important and beloved kitchen tool is almost always the chef’s knife.

While a butcher’s knife, paring knife, and serrated knife all play a role in food preparation, a well-groomed chef’s knife can do just about anything – cut, dice, carve, cut. – and last for many years.

Once you learn how to use a chef’s knife correctly, it becomes the most complete kitchen tool – it can be done for any task needed.

The right size chef’s knife for you depends a bit on personal preference. They average about 20cm long, which is usually the largest in your drawer, although you can of course get bigger or smaller.

Consider your hand and arm strength before buying. Weight and balance must be considered when choosing a knife, too heavy will make it difficult to operate safely. Choose the one you feel is right for you; otherwise, it can feel awkward.

Heavier knives are stiffer, but they can strain your hand when slicing tough ingredients like potatoes. If upper body strength isn’t your thing, you may want to avoid it.

Knives with larger, lighter handles give you more control, while knives with smaller handles allow you to slice thinly and quickly. If you love a soft cake, choose a knife with a smaller handle – it will give you more dexterity.

Swinging a large chef’s knife does not automatically make you a better cook, on the contrary, working with a knife that is too large can be potentially dangerous.

Always use a knife that you feel safe and secure.

Blades will vary by model and may be rounder in some than others, made of different metals, adding qualities such as a hard blade, keeping sharp edges and resisting corrosion.

Full knives are where the blade continues through the end of the handle, which can be heavier. Undoubtedly, a dual blade blade and handle will be lighter, with any imbalance often being compensated for by the extra weight in the handle.

Caring for your knife means regularly sharpening to keep the blade clean and sharp, and if possible, keeping the knife away from the dishwasher. Instead, hand wash and dry immediately after use and immediately store in a knife rack or drawer.